The Harvest Foundation said Tuesday it is awarding an $8 million challenge grant if the institute's nonprofit foundation raises at least $6.5 million on its own. Construction of the building is estimated to cost $15 million and could take up to three years.

The New College Institute partners with some Virginia colleges and universities to provide educational opportunities and job training in Southside Virginia. It was founded by an act of the General Assembly in 2006.

The Roanoke Times reports that the building is set to feature hangar-sized manufacturing bays, high-tech classrooms and a 450-seat grand hall.

A Justice Department civil rights investigation has concluded that the Ferguson Police Department and the city's municipal court engaged in a "pattern and practice" of discrimination against African Americans.